The changing training needs of clinical nurse managers: exploring issues for continuing professional development

Area of Science:

• Nursing Management
• Healthcare Education
• Human Resources in Healthcare

Background:

• Continuing professional development (CPD) is vital for clinical nurse managers to maintain care standards, job satisfaction, and reduce turnover.
• CPD needs for clinical nurse managers have been overlooked since the 1980s, despite increasing role complexity.
• This study addresses current CPD needs, considering work-related stress and job satisfaction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify specific areas where clinical nurse managers perceive a need for further training.
• To provide recommendations for developing future training programs tailored to their needs.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was used, starting with qualitative interviews of 15 clinical nurse managers.
• A survey questionnaire was developed based on interview findings and distributed to 182 clinical nurse managers across four NHS trusts.
• Data collection involved both in-depth interviews and a broad survey to capture comprehensive training needs.

Main Results:

• Clinical nurse managers felt competent clinically but lacked confidence in human resources, budget management, acting up, and IT.
• Survey results confirmed interview findings, highlighting a need for updated skills in these areas across all trusts.
• Higher job satisfaction was linked to perceived adequate role preparation, with clinical leadership preparation being consistent across demographics.

Conclusions:

• Continuing professional development (CPD) is a significant issue for UK clinical nurse managers.
• Providing targeted CPD opportunities can enhance job satisfaction, impacting staff recruitment and retention.
• Findings offer guidance for planning effective CPD programs for clinical nurse managers.